There are many differences between dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges. Apart from how they’re made and how they function, another key factor is their cost. For countless patients, finding out what kind of financial investment is required to pursue this type of permanent treatment can seem out of reach or not worth the price tag. Instead of giving up on the whole idea, why not learn what makes these teeth different and why millions of people have chosen to invest in a more stable and longer-lasting solution? It may inspire you to do the same!
Dental Implants Cost Less Long-Term
When you think about dentures or dental bridges, their upfront costs may be cheaper, but the long-term price tag may have you spending more over time.
Unlike these traditional prosthetics, dental implants do not require additional products (i.e., denture adhesive) to keep teeth in place. Also, the titanium posts fuse with the jawbone, so it’s unlikely you’ll need to change them in the future. This ensures their longevity and placement do not require you to spend money on adjustments or replacements.
Dental Implants Are Easier to Maintain
Dental implants are very similar to natural teeth and are considered lifelike among oral healthcare professionals and patients. With no metal clasps or clips to worry about, and no daily removal required, you can clean your smile with many of the same products that you already use to keep your oral health and hygiene in check.
A soft-bristle toothbrush, dental floss, and antimicrobial rinse are prime dental instruments you can use; however, you will need to switch to using a non-abrasive toothpaste. This will keep your dental implant teeth from being scratched while cleaning.
There is no need to remove your teeth (you can’t), as they work and look just like natural ones, so cleaning them is easy.
Dental Implants Prevent Future Bone Loss
When one or more teeth go missing, bone loss becomes a potentially serious problem if you do not seek timely replacement treatment. Since dentures and dental bridges only sit on top of the gums, they do not provide the stimulation the bone needs to prevent resorption.
Dental implants, however, sit within the jawbone and fuse with the nearby tissues to create a firm base that receives continuous stimulation over time. They’re the only root-to-crown tooth replacement that mimics how natural teeth work. As a result, you can worry less about future bone loss, avoid facial sagging, and reduce your risk of additional missing teeth.
Dental implants may be costlier at the start of treatment, but as you can see, the benefits of these prosthetics make them well worth the investment, especially if you agree to maintain your new smile so that it lasts a lifetime.
About the Author
Dr. Vincent Lam is a talented implant dentist in Burien who cares about making each appointment positive and enjoyable. When entrusting him to rebuild your smile with custom prosthetics that require oral surgery, you can expect him to welcome your questions, especially if you want to know what makes dental implants worth the investment. You are welcome to visit our website or call (206) 242-4477 if you want further clarification on the benefits of these prosthetics and why they’ll help you achieve the smile you want.